The aroma wafting from the oven is heavenly—imagine tender chicken infused with ricotta cheese nestled in a blanket of creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart. You’ll want to dive right in, fork at the ready.
I still remember the first time I whipped up these Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce for my family. The kids gobbled them up like they were candy, and I swear I heard angels sing when they took their first bites. Perfect for cozy weeknights or holiday gatherings, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You can whip up these meatballs effortlessly while enjoying the delightful flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals
- The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce creates a visually stunning centerpiece for any dinner table
- Plus, they are versatile enough to serve over pasta or on their own for a low-carb option
Sharing this dish at our last family gathering had everyone raving about how good it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for a healthier choice that still delivers flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta; it adds creaminess and richness that elevates the meatballs.
- Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green spinach to ensure maximum flavor and nutrition in your sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for an authentic taste; it melts beautifully into your sauce.
- Pasta (Optional): Serve over your favorite pasta or zoodles for a fun twist!
For the Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream creates a luscious texture that’s irresistible in an Alfredo sauce.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic provides aromatic flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt level in your delicious sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple yet effective seasonings that enhance all flavors within the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed. Your hands are your best tools here!
Form the Meatballs: Grab small portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them neatly in your prepared baking dish like little soldiers ready for action.
Bake Those Meatballs: Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will be magical!
Simmer the Alfredo Sauce: While those meatballs are baking away happily, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—this is where the magic begins!
Add Cream and Cheese for Creaminess: Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously as you add grated parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste; it should feel as comforting as a warm hug.
Combine It All Together: Once those glorious meatballs are cooked through, pour your luscious spinach Alfredo sauce over them before returning them to the oven for another 5 minutes of warmth.
Your kitchen is now smelling like heaven—and dinner is about to rock everyone’s world!
This recipe combines comfort food vibes with healthy ingredients you can feel good about serving. Enjoy these delightful Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs drizzled with that velvety spinach Alfredo sauce!
You Must Know
- The Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce bring comfort food to a whole new level
- This dish combines rich flavors and textures, making it a perfect family meal that everyone will love
- The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the table!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the chicken ricotta meatballs while simultaneously preparing your spinach Alfredo sauce for maximum flavor and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Customize the sauce with your favorite herbs.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect meatballs, ensure your ricotta is well-drained for better texture
- Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet; give each meatball space to brown evenly
- When making the sauce, stir continuously to avoid lumps and enhance creaminess
I remember the first time I made Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs. My friends devoured them within minutes, leaving me with nothing but empty plates and happy smiles!
FAQ
Can I freeze Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?
Yes, freeze them before baking for up to three months in an airtight container.
What can I serve with spinach Alfredo sauce?
Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
Check if they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (approximately 8 meatballs)
Description
Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are a comforting, creamy delight that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family at dinner.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh spinach
- Parmesan cheese
- Heavy cream
- Garlic cloves
- Butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, chopped spinach, parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and stir in grated parmesan until melted and creamy; season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the spinach Alfredo sauce over the meatballs before returning them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 155
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
